Korede Abdullah 
OGBOMOSO, Nigeria – Oyo State moves to strengthen agricultural innovation and higher education with a ₦650 million grant for LAUTECH’s teaching and research farm, signalling a renewed push for food security and youth employment.
Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, on Thursday announced the funding at the university’s 18th convocation, alongside broader investments in infrastructure, ICT, healthcare and housing.
“We are positioning LAUTECH as a globally competitive hub for innovation,” he says.
The grant targets the Iseyin campus farm project, aligning with the state’s agenda on agribusiness expansion and sustainable development.
Officials say the intervention builds on improved stability following the resolution of ownership disputes between Oyo and Osun states.
Chairman of the National Universities Commission Governing Board, Prof Olu Aina, urges graduates to uphold integrity.
“Competence opens doors, but character keeps them open,” he says.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Razaq Kalilu calls for continuous learning, while Pro-Chancellor Prof Ayodeji Omole highlights pressure on infrastructure amid growth.
Analysts say sustained investment will be key to maintaining the university’s competitive edge.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
Chukwu Obinna